The government has announced a multi-layered security plan ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), addressing crowd control, ticket fraud, emergency response, and potential threats to fan safety and stadium infrastructure.
In a statement issued on Friday, August 1, Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo said the measures, developed through inter-ministerial coordination, aim to safeguard all fans, players, and officials attending matches at the Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums.
With tens of thousands of spectators expected in match venues, the government has emphasized orderly crowd management to prevent stampedes and congestion.
Fake Tickets and Entry Disruptions During CHAN 2024
Fans will be required to undergo ticket verification 1 kilometre from the stadium gates, with sectional seating, real-time communication, and marshals in place to guide movement.
Crossing over barriers and unruly conduct will be met with disciplinary action.
“CHAN 2024 has put in place strict sectional seating protocols, well-trained stewards, and layered perimeter controls to ensure fans can enter and exit in waves, not surges,” PS Omollo said.
“Unruly behaviour such as jumping on walls and over barriers is strictly forbidden and will be dealt with Communication will be real-time, and fan marshals will guide movements.”
Also Read: Do’s and Don’ts for Fans During CHAN Matches
To curb fake tickets and entry disruptions, CHAN 2024 will adopt a 100% digital ticketing system.
Only fans with verified e-tickets will be allowed access. Security teams have been trained to detect counterfeit passes, and legal action will be taken against offenders.
PS Omollo on Terror Threats and Political Disruptions
As the tournament draws global attention, Kenya has activated an inter-agency counter-terrorism protocol.
Intelligence units, anti-riot police, and tactical response teams will secure both stadiums and surrounding areas.
There will also be specialised training for stewards and officers to handle threats such as pitch invasions, hooliganism, and political disruptions.
Dr. Omollo noted that tactical response units will swiftly deal with any disruptive situations, with prosecution backing where necessary.
A CHAN security hotline has also been activated for fans to report suspicious behavior.
“Fans are urged to stay alert, avoid distractions and report suspicious behaviour – the ministry has operationalized a CHAN Security hotline to aid in this,” he said.
“CHAN 2024 security apparatus will have tactical response units to handle disruptive scenarios swiftly, backed by legal prosecution where necessary.”
This, he added that it, is a concerted effort to curb vandalism and secure the facilities for AFCON 2027
Emergency Responses
In addition, the government has put in place a robust emergency medical response system.
Each stadium will host emergency tents, first responders, and ambulances stationed at key access points.
A joint emergency command center will coordinate any medical interventions, with routes mapped to the nearest hospitals for quick evacuation.
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Transport logistics are also under tight planning. No personal vehicles will be allowed into the stadiums. Instead, designated buses will transport fans to the venues
Security patrols will cover access roads, drop-off zones, and fan transit areas, particularly during night matches. Fans are urged to plan their routes in advance and use approved transport services.
Regarding safety checks, the ministry has reaffirmed that a CAF-approved list of prohibited items has been circulated widely.
Security officers will conduct thorough searches, and anyone found with restricted items risks being denied entry.
“Our goal is to deliver a safe, orderly, and world-class tournament experience for all,” Dr. Omollo emphasized.
An extensive list of prohibited items has been shared by CAF through the LOC and has been widely circulated for public information across various traditional and online media.
Security personnel will strictly and thoroughly search for listed contrabands. Possession of such prohibited could lead to denied access into the stadium.
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